DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The Embry-Riddle Athletics Department is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Chad Keller, longtime assistant coach for the Embry-Riddle men's basketball program. Keller, who completed his 21st season with the Eagles in 2024-25, passed away on Thursday evening after a long and heroic battle with cancer, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service to the game of basketball.
 
Keller joined the Embry-Riddle coaching staff in August of 2004, and in over two decades with the Eagles, he played an instrumental role in building one of the most respected basketball programs in the country. During his tenure, the Eagles posted a 453-187 record, captured six conference tournament championships, four regular season titles, and made 12 national tournament appearances, including a trip to the NCAA Sweet 16 in 2022. He was also the driving force behind the program's recruiting success, helping to bring in multiple All-American players and future coaches to the program.
 
"It is such a sad, sad day with the significant loss of Coach Chad Keller," Men's Basketball Head Coach Steve Ridder said. "Chad was truly the standard of what our University, Athletic Program and our men's basketball program aspire to do every day...impact young people's lives! Chad was extremely passionate and relentless. He was a hard worker, a dedicated professional and a true difference maker! He thrived on building REAL relationships; he loved and cared so much for people, especially his amazing family, our players, his friends, and colleagues. He was an inspiration to all of us every day in the strength of his faith and how he modeled humility and servant leadership. I have so much love, respect and gratitude for the amazing 20 plus years we were able to be around each other and create something very special at ERAU. The impact he had on so many people's lives is immeasurable."
 
Before arriving at Embry-Riddle, Keller was one of the top high school coaches in the state of Florida, most notably at Leesburg High School, where he led the Yellow Jackets to six consecutive Sweet 16 appearances and a trip to the State Final Four in 2002. That same year, he was named the Florida Dairy Farmers Class 5A Coach of the Year.
 
A proud alumnus of Flagler College, Keller was a decorated point guard and team captain, ranking among the program's all-time leaders in assists. He also enjoyed a storied high school career and in May 2025, he was inducted in the St. Cloud High School Hall of Fame.
 
Keller also inspired and motivated others away from the basketball court. He was often asked to speak at a variety of functions and made frequent visits to local elementary and middle schools. A member of the National Association of Basketball Coaches, Keller was a relationship builder and provided mentorship to several individuals who have gone into the coaching profession. Throughout his battle with cancer, he became a source of inspiration to others as he used speaking engagements and personal connection to inspire hope and strength in others.
 
"Coach Keller dedicated over two decades to Embry-Riddle and built a lasting legacy that reaches far beyond our men's basketball team" Embry-Riddle Director of Athletics Rachel Burleson shared. "His loss will leave a lasting impact that rivals the impact he had on so many people throughout his tenure."
 
Beyond the sidelines, Keller was a devoted family man and a respected community leader. He is survived by his wife, Gwynne, children Kiley, Colby, and Caden, and stepchildren Colin and Vivian.

Click here to view Chad's speech at the 2023 Coaches vs Cancer event